New Zealand has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign workers seeking unskilled jobs in 2025. The country’s stable economy, safe working environment, and high minimum wage make it a top choice for those who want to start a new life abroad. Unskilled jobs may not require higher education or professional experience, but they are in high demand in sectors such as agriculture, farming, construction, hospitality, cleaning, and caregiving.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about unskilled jobs in New Zealand 2025 with visa sponsorship, including eligibility requirements, salary packages, visa options, and the application process.
Why Choose New Zealand for Unskilled Jobs?
There are several reasons why thousands of foreign workers apply for unskilled jobs in New Zealand every year:
- High Minimum Wage: As of 2025, the minimum wage in New Zealand is NZD $23.15 per hour, which is much higher compared to many Asian and African countries.
- Visa Sponsorship Opportunities: Many employers in farming, construction, and healthcare offer sponsorship for overseas workers.
- Safe & Friendly Environment: New Zealand is known for its peaceful lifestyle and supportive work culture.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR): Working in New Zealand with a sponsored job may lead to residency options in the future.
- High Demand for Labor: Due to skill shortages, unskilled and semi-skilled workers are in constant demand.
Types of Unskilled Jobs in New Zealand 2025
Here are some of the most common unskilled jobs available with visa sponsorship in 2025:
1. Farm Worker Jobs
- Duties: Planting, harvesting, fruit picking, and general farm maintenance.
- Salary: NZD $23 – $28 per hour.
- Visa Sponsorship: Seasonal workers and permanent farm staff are often sponsored.
2. Construction Laborers
- Duties: Assisting builders, carrying materials, cleaning construction sites.
- Salary: NZD $25 – $30 per hour.
- Visa Sponsorship: Many construction companies sponsor overseas labor due to workforce shortages.
3. Hospitality & Cleaning Jobs
- Roles: Kitchen helpers, cleaners, dishwashers, hotel attendants.
- Salary: NZD $23 – $26 per hour.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available in hotels, restaurants, and service industries.
4. Caregiver & Support Worker Jobs
- Duties: Assisting elderly or disabled people with daily needs.
- Salary: NZD $24 – $28 per hour.
- Visa Sponsorship: Common in healthcare and aged care sectors.
5. Fruit Picking & Seasonal Jobs
- Duties: Fruit picking, packing, and sorting in orchards and vineyards.
- Salary: NZD $23 – $27 per hour.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available through seasonal work visas.
Salary Packages for Unskilled Workers
Unskilled workers in New Zealand earn competitive wages compared to many countries.
- Hourly Wage: NZD $23 – $30
- Weekly Earnings: NZD $920 – $1,200 (40 hours per week)
- Monthly Earnings: NZD $3,600 – $4,800
- Annual Salary: NZD $45,000 – $55,000 (approx.)
Additional benefits may include accommodation, transportation, and overtime pay depending on the employer.
Visa Options for Unskilled Jobs in New Zealand 2025
To work legally in New Zealand, foreign workers must apply for the right visa. Below are the most common options:
1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Introduced for workers sponsored by accredited New Zealand employers.
- Allows you to work for up to 3 years.
- Can lead to permanent residency if you continue employment.
2. Seasonal Worker Visa (Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme – RSE)
- For agricultural and horticultural jobs (fruit picking, farm work).
- Duration: Up to 7 months.
- Employers under this scheme can sponsor foreign workers.
3. Working Holiday Visa (for eligible countries)
- For young people (18–30 years old).
- Allows temporary work in unskilled or semi-skilled jobs.
- Not always sponsorship-based, but a great entry option.
4. Student Visa with Work Rights
- Allows international students to work 20 hours per week during study and full-time during holidays.
- Many students take unskilled jobs in cafes, cleaning, or retail.
Eligibility Requirements
While unskilled jobs don’t require higher qualifications, workers must still meet basic requirements:
- Age: 18+ years.
- Basic English communication skills.
- Physically fit for manual labor.
- Clean criminal record.
- Valid passport.
- Willingness to relocate to New Zealand.
How to Apply for Unskilled Jobs in New Zealand 2025
Follow these steps to apply:
- Search for Accredited Employers: Only accredited employers can sponsor foreign workers.
- Prepare Your CV/Resume: Highlight work experience, even if it’s basic or unskilled.
- Apply Online: Use official job portals and employer websites.
- Attend Interviews: Employers may conduct online interviews before selection.
- Receive Job Offer: Once selected, you’ll get a written employment contract.
- Apply for Work Visa: Submit your visa application along with the job offer letter.
- Travel to New Zealand: Once approved, you can travel and start working.
Top Websites to Find Unskilled Jobs in New Zealand
Here are some reliable websites for job search:
- Seek.co.nz – General job portal.
- Trademe.co.nz/jobs – Popular for hospitality and seasonal jobs.
- Workhere.co.nz – For international workers.
- Careers.govt.nz – Official government career site.
- Seasonaljobs.co.nz – Best for fruit picking and farm jobs.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection
- Apply for jobs with accommodation included (common in farm work).
- Get references from past employers if possible.
- Improve basic English communication skills.
- Apply early, as seasonal jobs fill quickly.
- Be flexible with job location and type of work.
Conclusion
Unskilled jobs in New Zealand 2025 are a golden opportunity for foreign workers who want to earn good salaries, gain international experience, and even move towards permanent residency. With visa sponsorship options available in farming, construction, hospitality, and healthcare, thousands of workers from around the world are applying every year.
If you are serious about working in New Zealand, start preparing your CV, search for accredited employers, and apply for the right visa today.
👉 Tip: Always use official websites and accredited employers to avoid scams.